Open Letter from Rev. Clarence, 7/25/21

Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. James,

Indeed, we continue to observe all safety measures recommended and required by our Bishops, the City of Somerville, and the governor of the Commonwealth.  Today, as we concluded two full months of common/communal/public worship with the celebration of Eucharist, there is a sense of return to normalcy–to be able to hear our historic organ ring out, to listen to the wonderful tone of our “borrowed” violinist, and to see familiar faces, albeit partially hidden by masks.  We pray that we [do] not become complacent, such that we forget the dangers of a virus that has spared our congregation, but which continues to make its presence felt in the larger community and world.  Our formulaic prayer in liturgy, “for the whole state of Christ’s Church and the world”, still leaves room for individual and private prayers for those who continue to serve the infirmed, in research laboratories and in hospitals.  They are engaged in critical and crucial ministries.

As we begin to look toward the fall and the return of Tufts students and the possibility of reengaging outreach programs that have been dormant due to the pandemic, you are alerted that the next vestry meeting is scheduled for Sunday, 15 August, to be convened immediately following the 10:00 a.m. Eucharist.  You are invited to come and share your ideas and aspirations as we continue to rebuild and to strengthen our presence in Teele Square.

We pray:

O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: Increase and multiply upon us your mercy; that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we lose not the things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  Amen.

May the peace of God, that passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be with you, and remain with you and those whom you love, this day and forever more.  Amen.

Your fellow traveler in The Way

CEB +